PM WANI WiFi Registration Scheme: A Complete Overview

PM-WANI, or Prime Minister WiFi Access Network Interface, is a flagship scheme launched on December 9, 2020, to promote public Wi-Fi networks across India in alignment with the National Digital Communications Policy, 2018.

The scheme enables small entrepreneurs and businesses to become Wi-Fi service providers without requiring a telecom license, making affordable internet widely accessible, especially in rural and underserved areas.

With over 200 PDO Aggregators, 100+ App Providers, and nearly 2.5 lakh hotspots already active, PM WANI is transforming India's digital landscape.

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Features That Empower You

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No License Requirement

Businesses only need to register with the Department of Telecommunications, no telecom license is required.

Pan-India Operations

Entities registered under PM WANI can operate across India with no geographic limitations.

Zero Master Franchise Charges

No franchise fees, making it a cost-effective model for public Wi-Fi provisioning.

High Revenue Potential

Entrepreneurs can monetize internet access through multiple models and user bases.

Empowers Local Vendors

Small retail shops and startups can offer broadband services, creating employment and digital access.

Who Needs to Register?

Legal Compliance

Provides a legitimate route to offer public Wi-Fi without telecom licensing complexities.

User Data Protection

Data logs must be maintained and stored securely on Indian servers for transparency.

No Registration Fee

The Department of Telecommunications offers the registration free of charge.

Boosts Digital India Mission

Supports rural connectivity and digital inclusion goals of the government.

Government Coordination

Backed by DoT, TRAI, and C-DOT for secure operations and system-level regulation.

How To File It Online?

Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your response is submitted correctly

Register on SARALSANCHAR

Fill Application (Annexure C)

Select the relevant entity type (PDOA or App Provider) and complete Annexure C.

Upload Documents

Submit documents like PAN, CIN, MoA, AoA, address proof, and promoter details.

Get Registration Certificate

Receive DoT approval and registration certificate within 7 working days.

Certification by Central Registry

Get system/app software certified by C-DOT for full operational readiness.

Deadlines & Penalties

Avoid late fees by submitting on time

Penalty for Late Filing

Misrepresentation or falsified documentation may lead to cancellation of registration.
Failure to safeguard user data will attract penal action from DoT.
Using foreign servers for data storage violates scheme conditions.
Offering telephone services under PM WANI is strictly prohibited.
Non-compliance with Made in India hardware usage norms can result in suspension.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

DoT can suspend or revoke registration in case of national security concerns.
Entities may be held liable for privacy breaches or user data misuse.
Failure to address complaints or display tariffs can lead to regulatory penalties.
Repeat violations can lead to permanent disqualification from the scheme.

1Eligibility for PDOA Registration

Company registered under Companies Act, 2013
Own or manage internet infrastructure
Able to handle multiple PDOs
Develop a Wi-Fi access mobile app
Submit required information to DoT

2Key Components of PM WANI Framework

Public Data Office (PDO)
Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA)
App Provider
Central Registry maintained by C-DOT
WANI (Wireless Access Network Interface)

3Documents Required

Certificate of Incorporation
PAN Card and CIN
MoA and AoA
Business Address Proof
Equity and Capital Certificates
MHA Clearance (if foreign nationals involved)
Board Resolution and Authorized ID proof

Why It Matters

Key Benefits

Allows local vendors to provide internet without heavy investment.
Increases digital access in underserved areas.
Supports Digital India and rural internet goals.
Creates self-employment and income streams.
Promotes indigenous tech solutions.

Avoid These Mistakes

Pitfalls to Avoid During Filing

Common errors that can delay your submission

PDO Registration

Retail shops and individuals can become public Wi-Fi providers.

No license required, only registration through PDOAs.

PDOA Registration

Companies managing PDOs register as aggregators.

Responsible for compliance, app interface, and bandwidth.

App Provider Registration

Firms offering mobile apps for Wi-Fi access must register.

Facilitates user login, authentication, and billing.

Central Registry

Managed by C-DOT for all PM WANI registrations.

Ensures interoperability and secure access.

Aspect	BharatNet Project	PM WANI Project
Year of Launch	2011	2020
Objective	Broadband to Gram Panchayats	Widespread public Wi-Fi access
Connectivity Type	Wired (Optical Fiber)	Wireless (Wi-Fi)
Funding Model	Government funded	Privately operated
Focus Area	Rural infrastructure	Urban and rural hotspots

Process Overview

Streamlined Filing Process

1
Registration certificate issued within 7 working days.
2
No registration or license fee charged by DoT.
3
PDOs may incur minimal infrastructure setup costs.
4
Certification by Central Registry required post-registration.
5
Regular compliance audits may be conducted by authorities.